Tear conservation is one of the ways eye care professionals manage dry eye symptoms. For individuals with chronic dryness, irritation, or reduced tear production, retaining the eye’s natural tears can help support comfort and clarity. One approach involves slowing how quickly tears drain from the eyes, a technique that is often achieved with medical devices or materials placed in the tear drainage system.
LACRIFILLⓇ is a newer, longer-lasting option in this category. It is a soft, biocompatible gel placed into the eye’s drainage canal to preserve moisture and reduce the need for artificial tears. LACRIFILLⓇ is often seen as an upgraded alternative to traditional punctal plugs. Here we explore what LACRIFILLⓇ is, how it works, and how it fits into modern dry eye care strategies.
What Is LACRIFILLⓇ and How Does It Work?
LACRIFILLⓇ is a canalicular occlusive gel, which is a medical-grade material injected directly into the canaliculus, which is the narrow channel inside the eyelid that drains tears from the eye into the nose. Unlike punctal plugs, which sit at the surface of the drainage opening (the puncta), LACRIFILLⓇ fills the inner portion of the drainage system.
Once placed, LACRIFILLⓇ forms a soft, conforming plug that:
- Blocks tear drainage from within
- Reduces tear loss
- Supports tear film stability over an extended period
The gel gradually dissolves over time, depending on individual tear composition and eye health. Because it conforms to the canaliculus and stays beneath the surface, it may be less likely to cause irritation or become dislodged.
Who Might Be a Candidate for LACRIFILLⓇ?
In some cases, we recommend LACRIFILLⓇ to individuals with moderate to severe dry eye who need support maintaining tear film stability. Ideal candidates often include:
- People who responded well to short-term punctal plugs
- Those who found plugs uncomfortable or too visible
- Individuals using artificial tears multiple times per day
- Patients with dry eye related to age, environment, or systemic conditions
Since dry eye has multiple causes — including inflammation, evaporation, and tear deficiency — an evaluation by an ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Holtebeck or Dr. Abbas, is essential to determine if LACRIFILLⓇ is appropriate.
The Value of Long-Term Tear Retention
One of LACRIFILLⓇ’s key advantages is its extended duration. By reducing the need for repeated procedures or frequent drop use, it can offer patients a more stable, low-maintenance option for managing their symptoms.
For patients dealing with the daily disruption of dry eye, long-term tear retention can significantly improve quality of life. Still, like any dry eye care strategy, it works best when integrated into a personalized approach that may include lid hygiene, nutritional support, and environmental adjustments.
Exploring Tear Retention with LACRIFILLⓇ
As a soft, hidden gel that conserves tears for up to a year, LACRIFILLⓇ serves as a longer-lasting alternative to punctal plugs, especially for those seeking more consistent moisture without daily maintenance.
Dry eye care is not one-size-fits-all. Whether LACRIFILLⓇ is right for someone depends on their symptoms, tear production, and response to other therapies. A comprehensive evaluation is essential for determining if it fits within an effective, long-term solution. As a first step, schedule an eye evaluation with the Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield to learn more about your dry eye care options.